Top Architecture Universities in Malaysia 2024

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Unlike construction related abilities, architecture is the art and technique of designing and building. Architecture is a method that serves both expressive and functional needs, advancing both utilitarian and artistic objectives.

The relative importance of these two ends can vary substantially, yet they cannot be isolated from one another.

One of Malaysia’s most in demanded programs has always been architecture. The vast array of locally inspired architecture that adorns Malaysia’s landscape may be the inspiration for many Malaysians who aspire to be architects. Studying architecture locally in Malaysia is the best approach to fulfill this desire.

Architectural design is primarily driven by the holistically creative manipulation of mass, space, volume, texture, light, shadow, materials, program, and realistic elements like cost, construction, and technology in order to achieve an end that is aesthetically pleasing, practically useful, and frequently artistic.

This sets engineering design apart from architectural design, which is often inspired by the creative application of scientific and mathematical concepts.

Qualifications for being an Architecture

1. Strong Mathematical Ability

Because the entire idea of architecture is built on the rules and constraints of mathematics, you must have a good understanding of numerical concepts, especially in the fields of geometry and advanced algebra.

Geometry, algebra, and trigonometry are all essential components of architectural design. Architects utilize these mathematical equations to plan their plans or preliminary sketch drawings.

They also estimate the possibility of issues the construction team will face when they realize the tridimensional design objective.

2. Creativity

Being an architect requires a lot of creativity because you will spend your entire career building modern projects that push the boundaries of aesthetic appeal.

An architect’s primary goal is to innovate and realize audacious, novel concepts. If you want your work to be recognizable and famous, you must constantly innovate.

3. Good Communication Skills

You’ll need to interact with a lot of lawyers, builders, surveyors, contractors, government officials, tradespeople, and structural engineers, all of whom have different interests and values.

Meeting the needs of all individuals and establishing strong relationships with them is a crucial but frequently neglected part of the work. In many cases, it determines whether a project is successful or not.

4. Problem-Solving Abilities 

In the past, few endeavors have ever been entirely successful without a mishap. As you might think, large-scale building projects are no different.

When a concerns about the design issue arises, whether it be a legal situation or a material supply issue, you need to be very adaptable to fix it quickly and efficiently. Having a backup strategy on hand is essential in both scenarios.

Why Should You Study Architecture in Malaysia?

The Malaysian government is renowned for its stringent oversight of the nation’s educational system. A primary education will be provided to international students.

Lembaga Arsitek Malaysia (LAM), for instance, is the accrediting organization for architecture graduates in Malaysia and is a particular government body for the country’s architecture department.

This country is home to a large number of structures with outstanding architecture. The Menara Kembar Petronas, Dataran Merdeka, and other magnificent structures are visible.

Of course, this can serve as inspiration for future building designs that are contemporary, useful, and futuristic.

Students will have more opportunities to view and learn about various traditional and modern architectures that might be an inspiration during their studies if they choose the finest university in Malaysia to study architecture.

10 Best Architecture University in Malaysia

As our research shows, best university for architecture in Malaysia is University Technology Malaysia (UTM). Others are as follows which some of them are among top universities in Malaysia.

1. University Technology Malaysia (UTM)
2. University of Malaya (UM)
3. MARA University of Technology
4. National University of Malaysia (UKM)
5. Putra Malaysia University (UPM)
6. Taylor’s University
7. UCSI University Kuala Lumpur
8. Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur (IUKL)
9. University Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR)
10. LimKokWing University of Creative Technology (LUCT)

University Technology Malaysia (UTM)

UTM’s architecture program is highly regarded for incorporating modern technology into architectural education. The curriculum emphasizes sustainable design and urban planning, preparing students to tackle contemporary challenges in the architectural field with innovative solutions.

The Technical College initially offered diploma-level engineering courses in quantity surveying, electrical and radio engineering, land surveying, mechanical engineering, and civil engineering.

Approximately 17,500 full-time undergraduate students and 3,200 postgraduate students are enrolled in UTM right now. 1,877 full-time academic staff members and 2,061 support staff members work at the university.

With over 200,000 technical graduates and credentialed professionals produced over the years, UTM has established itself as Malaysia’s Premier Engineering and Technology University.

University Malaya (UM)

At UM, the architecture program is known for its balanced approach, blending theoretical education with practical, practical training. The focus here is on sustainable and environmentally responsible design, reflecting the growing global emphasis on ecological sensitivity in architecture.

In order to do a greater service together, they joined forces in October 1949 to found the University of Malaya, creating a generation of educated and skilled individuals who would help lay the groundwork for a new nation.

As a result, the University of Malaya was founded on October 8, 1949, as a national institution to meet the needs of the Federation of Malaya and Singapore in terms of higher education.

The University expanded very quickly in the first ten years of its existence, and as a result, two independent Divisions were established in 1959, one in Singapore and the other in Kuala Lumpur.

University Technology MARA – UiTM

This university stands out for its dedication to exploring and preserving Malaysian architectural heritage while integrating modern design principles.

The curriculum encourages students to develop a deep understanding of local cultural contexts in their architectural designs.

University Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

UKM’s architecture program actively commits to environmentally sustainable design. The curriculum aims to develop students’ understanding of the relationship between architecture and the environment and promotes eco-friendly design practices.

UKM continually assesses its courses to stay current with industry needs and technological advancements. They also accept modern teaching methods like MOOCs.

The university comprises 13 faculties, 13 institutes, 10 residential colleges, and 10 service centers, all dedicated to fulfilling its core mission of education.

University Putra Malaysia (UPM)

UPM is particularly famous for its strengths in landscape architecture and urban design it is also one of  the well known architecture university in Malaysia.

The program offers students the opportunity to delve deeply into the planning and design of outdoor spaces, from public parks to urban landscapes.

Taylor’s University

Taylor’s University offers a contemporary architecture program with modern facilities. The program is famous for its global perspective, with numerous opportunities for international collaboration and exchange, preparing students for the global architectural scene.

Students can choose from various courses like Architecture and Construction Technology, Business and Entrepreneurship, and Computing and IT.

There are also options in Culinary Arts, Design, and Education. Engineering and Robotics, Food Science, and Gastronomy are available too.

Students can also study Hospitality, Interactive Spatial Design, and Tourism and Events. Law, Medicine, and Pharmacy are among the options. Taylor’s offers Psychology, Performing Arts, and Social Sciences. Quantity Surveying is another course choice.

UCSI University Kuala Lumpur

At UCSI, the focus is on growing creativity and design excellence in architecture. The program covers a broad range of architectural topics, with a strong emphasis on creative problem solving and innovative design.

UCSI University is now the sole recipient of the “QS Recognition for Improvement” award worldwide. They achieved the most significant improvement among the top 300 global universities, advancing by an average of 63 positions to secure the 284th rank in the QS World University Rankings 2023.

Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur (IUKL)

IUKL’s architecture program is famous for its emphasis on the technical and practical aspects of architecture. The curriculum equips students with the skills needed to address the practical challenges of building and designing in various environments.

University Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR)

Founded in 2002, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) is a significant Malaysian university. It has campuses in Kampar, Perak (approximately 190 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur), and Kajang, Selangor (approximately 20 kilometers from Kuala Lumpur).

UTAR offers an architecture program that integrates traditional architectural principles with contemporary practices and technologies. The program provides a comprehensive education in architecture, covering both the artistic and scientific aspects of the field.

LimKokWing University of Creative Technology (LUCT)

LUCT’s architecture program is unique for its integration of creative technology with traditional architectural studies. The curriculum is innovative, focusing on the use of digital technologies in architectural design and encouraging students to push the boundaries of modern architecture.

FAQs

1. What are the requirements for Studying Architecture Course in Malaysia?

• STPM: Minimum of 2Cs, including Mathematics and English.
• A-Level: Minimum of 2Ds, including Mathematics.
• Relevant Foundation: Minimum CGPA of 2.00.
• Matriculas: Minimum CGPA of 2.00.
• Relevant Diploma: Minimum CGPA of 2.50.

2. What is the most famous architecture in Malaysia?

• The architectural design of the Petronas Twin Towers has been heavily influenced by Islamic concepts such as unity, harmony, stability, and logic. Each structure is supported by sixteen enormous columns around its entire perimeter.

3. How much does an architecture degree cost in Malaysia?

• An architectural diploma can cost between RM25,000 and RM50,000. Meanwhile, architecture degrees can cost ranging from RM35,000 to RM120,000.

4. What support services are available for international students studying architecture at the top-ranked universities in Malaysia?

• International students at top architecture universities in Malaysia receive comprehensive support services, including assistance with visa applications, accommodation arrangements, orientation programs, language support, cultural integration activities, academic advising, and access to international student organizations.

5. What should I consider when choosing an architecture university in Malaysia?

• Consider factors such as accreditation, curriculum, faculty expertise, campus facilities, industry partnerships, internship opportunities, and location. It’s also essential to evaluate the university’s reputation in architecture and its connections with the industry.